Vic ready for Asian Century: Baillieu

Date: November 09 2012

Carl Dickens

Victoria is leading the way among Australian states in capitalising on Asia's unprecedented growth, Premier Ted Baillieu says.

After telling the Australian British Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) that Britain is Victoria's "oldest, most enduring ... and most cheerful" international partner, Mr Baillieu went on to talk up the state's credentials at the dawn of the so-called Asian Century.

Unprecedented trade missions to China, India and the Middle East have already forged new business relationships in Asia, while increased flights between Melbourne and key Asian cities, along with new diplomatic offices in China and Indonesia, will all boost diplomacy, he says.

"We've taken over 900 businesses to new markets this year alone, compared to 350 on average previously (annually)," Mr Baillieu told an ABCC function in Melbourne on Friday.

International student scholarship and exchange programs and compulsory language education for school students would also give Victoria the most "Asia-capable workforce" in the country, he said.

"We've got the connections ... we've got the diverse economy, and it is remarkable how our competitive strengths match the needs of our Asian neighbours," the premier said.

Mr Baillieu said the federal government's recently-released Asian Century white paper featured some good ideas, but lacked funding and contained many inconsistencies.

The Gillard government's cuts to export market development grants, university funding and Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) staff numbers all worked against its white paper's stated goals of increasing exports, building international diplomacy and creating jobs and research opportunities, he said.

"There needs to be a more clear source of funding before anyone's going to take the white paper on board for more than what it is; an expression of noble goals," Mr Baillieu said.

With Asia set to account for more than half of the world's economic output within the next 13 years, the premier said the opportunities to build trade and tourism must be seized now.

"We're leading the way in terms of footprints, in terms of relationships, in terms of engaging with our Asian neighbours ... underpinned by strong policies," he said.

"I don't believe we have a minute to waste."

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